Fiberboard Surface Protection System

ABSTRACT

A surface protector system for protecting selected portions of floor surfaces, wherein the system includes first and second surface protectors that are connected together to form a dust-proof connection between the first and second surface protectors.

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/401,467 filed Jan. 9, 2017, which in turn is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/377,347filed Dec. 13, 2016, which in turn claims priority on U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/271,752, filed Dec. 28, 2015, thedisclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The present disclosure relates generally to protective coverings, andmore particularly to a protective covering for protecting finished workand other surfaces during construction, moving, painting, or otheractivities, and a method of manufacturing the protective covering.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The process of building out an area or constructing a building occurs inmany phases. During this process, a number of different types of workersare required and it may be necessary to complete the construction insteps. As a result, frequently contractors damage floors, stairs,countertops, and other finished work in the process of completing othertasks and moving in and out heavy equipment.

During the last stages of house or building construction, and afterfloor and countertop materials already have been installed, finish worksuch as painting, caulking, finish carpentry, and appliance and lightingfixture installation is typically done. This finish work can often causesignificant damage to plastic laminates, linoleum, hardwood, ceramictiles, and carpets before the building is finished, sold, or moved into.Heavy tools, caulking and paint buckets, and appliance edges areparticularly damaging.

Traditionally, the only protection, if any, given to floors andcountertops during the final stages of construction has been a thinfabric drop cloth or a thin plastic sheet such as the 0.002 inch thickself-adhesive plastic sheet. These sheets help protect against paint orcaulking splatters and soil on workers' feet, but do not protect againstgouges, scrapes, abrasion, or other damage and breakage due to impact ofobjects or moving of equipment/tools.

Fabric throw rugs or moving van-style blankets can be used but theseabsorb liquids, snag and catch on appliances, and do not protect againstsharp and forceful impact. Also, these covers are bulky and heavy totransport and store.

Other products are designed to protect floors or walls independently,but not both at the same time with one product. These products leave thebase of walls and the perimeter of the floor exposed to damage. It is tobe appreciated that where separate products are used to protect thefloor and the wall, the lower section of walls, including thebaseboards, can be easily damaged on job sites. Additionally, presentproducts do not protect from liquid spills occurring at or near thejunction between the wall and floor.

In view of the current state of the art, an improved fiberboard sheetwas developed as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,365,385 and U.S. DesignPat. No. D751,223, which are both incorporated herein by reference.Although this fiberboard sheet provides protection to a floor surfacewhen multiple fiberboard sheets are used, the fiberboard sheets canseparate from one another and expose the floor between the separatedsheets. In order to address this issue, the end edges of adjacentfiberboard sheets are overlapped. However, during use of the fiberboardsheets, the sheets can move relative to one another and allow a space toform between the fiberboard sheets. Also, sawdust, screws, nails, clips,etc. that fall on the top surface of a fiberboard sheet can work its waybetween the overlapped sheet and onto a floor surface during the use ofthe fiberboard sheets. Such materials can cause damage to the floorsurface once such materials are in contact with the floor surface andworkers walk on the fiberboard sheets and cause such materials to bepressed into the floor surface. Furthermore, liquid spills on thefiberboard sheets can seep between the overlapped fiberboard sheets andonto a floor surface and thereby potentially damage the floor surface.Generally, a user must overlap the fiberboard sheets and then get onhis/her knees and cut and paste adhesive tape over the overlapped seamof the fiberboard sheets. For many workers, getting up and down on onesknees to tape over overlapped fiberboard sheets is time consuming, canbe difficult for some workers, and requires additional materials (such atape) at the jobsite to complete the installation of the fiberboardsheet over a surface to be protected.

In view of the current state of floor coverings, there is a need for afloor covering that is easy to use, protects a floor surface againstsharp and forceful impact, protects the lower section of walls(including the baseboards), and which can be easily connected together.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a surface protector formed of asheet having an adhesive strip positioned on or closely adjacent to oneor more edges of the sheet. As can be appreciated that the sheet can beformed of different types of materials (e.g., paperboard, fiberboard,plastic, fabric, composite materials, fiberglass, nylon or other typesof polymers, etc.). In one non-limiting arrangement, the sheet is formedof a flexible or rollable material. As defined herein, a “rollablematerial” is a material having a longitudinal length of at least 10 feetthat can be hand rolled by a single individual into a roll having adiameter of less than 12 inch without forming creases that run from sideedge to side edge in the material as the sheet is rolled. The thicknessof the sheet is non-limiting. In one non-limiting arrangement, the sheetis formed of paperboard or fiberboard. As defined herein, “fiberboard”is a type of engineered wood product that is made out of wood fibers.The general types of fiberboard (in order of increasing density) includeparticle board, medium-density fiberboard, and hardboard. Plywood is nota type of fiberboard, as it is made of thin sheets of wood, not woodfibers or particles. Cardboard is also not paperboard or fiberboardsince it includes a corrugated layer. In one non-limiting configuration,the paperboard or fiberboard that forms the sheet of the surfaceprotector has a thickness of less than 0.5 inches; however, this is notrequired. In another non-limiting configuration, the paperboard orfiberboard is generally a water-resistant paperboard or fiberboard;however, this is not required.

The surface protector can include one or more adhesive strips positionedon one or both sides of the sheet. The adhesive strip is a preappliedadhesive strip that includes a removable top protective release linerthat, when removed, exposes a top adhesive surface of the adhesivestrip. The exposed top adhesive surface of the adhesive strip isdesigned to bond with a portion of another surface protector that ispositioned on the exposed top adhesive surface. The adhesive bondbetween the two sheets of the two surface protectors that is formed bythe adhesive strip is a dust-proof bond, and can optionally also be aliquid-proof bond. During installation of multiple surface protectors ofthe present invention, a first sheet of the surface protector ispositioned on a floor surface to be covered. After the first sheet ofthe surface protector is positioned on a floor surface, the removablerelease liner is removed from the top adhesive surface of the adhesivestrip. An edge of a second sheet of the surface protector is positionedover and then on the exposed top adhesive surface of the adhesive stripon the first sheet of the surface protector. Thereafter, the user canwalk on the top surface of the second sheet in the area of the topadhesive surface of the adhesive strip on the first sheet to completethe adhesive bonding of the first and second sheets of the two surfaceprotectors. The adhesive bond forms a dust-proof bond between the twosurface protectors and also, optionally, a liquid-proof seal between thetwo surface protectors. This process can then be repeated to secureadditional surface protectors together. For example, when a thirdsurface protector is to be connected to the side of the second surfaceprotector, the removable release liner on the second surface protectoris removed from the top adhesive surface of the adhesive strip. An edgeof a third sheet of the surface protector is positioned over and then onthe exposed top adhesive surface of the adhesive strip on the secondsurface protector. Thereafter, the user can walk on the top surface ofthe third sheet in the area of the top adhesive surface of the adhesivestrip on the second surface protector to complete the adhesive bondingof the second and third surface protectors. As can be appreciated,fourth, fifth, etc. surface protectors can be connected together if sorequired. This arrangement eliminates the need for users to get down ontheir knees to apply tape over the overlapping edges of the two surfaceprotectors. The removable release liner can be removed from the adhesivestrip prior to, during, or after the sheet being placed on the floorsurface; however, this is not required. The removable liner can also beremoved from one surface protector as the other surface protector isbeing laid over the prior laid surface protector. In such aninstallation method, the user need not bend completely over or get onhis/her knees to adhesively connect together the two surface protector.The use of the preapplied adhesive strip on the surface protectoreliminates the need to apply a separate piece of tape over theoverlapping edges of two surface protectors and also makes installationof the sheets faster and easier.

The width and thickness of the adhesive strip is non-limiting.Generally, the width of the preapplied adhesive strip is 0.25-8 inchesand all values and ranges there between (e.g., 1 inch, 2 inches, 2.5inches, etc.) however, larger widths can be used. Generally, the widthof each of the adhesive strips is about 0.01-10% the width of the sheetof the surface protector (and all values and ranges therebetween), andmore typically about 1-8% the width of the sheet of the surfaceprotector. The thickness of the adhesive strip is generally less than0.25 inches; however, greater thickness can be used. The adhesive isselected and formulated such that, when the adhesive is connected to thesurface of another surface protector, a dust-proof and optionally awater-resistant or waterproof seal is formed between the two surfaceprotectors at the location of the adhesive strip; however, this is notrequired. The composition of the adhesive that forms the adhesive stripis non-limiting. The adhesive is selected and formulated such that whenthe adhesive is connected to the surface of another sheet, theconnection is a permanent connection. Such permanent connection isdefined such that when two surface protectors that are connectedtogether by the adhesive strip are forcibly separated from one another,one or more surfaces of the sheets of one or both surface protectors aretorn or damaged and/or the adhesive strip is damaged due to the forcedseparation of the surface protectors. As a result of such damage, adust-proof seal and/or liquid-proof seal cannot be reformed along thecomplete length of the adhesive strip. A non-permanent connection wouldresult in the surface protector and adhesive strip not being torn ordamaged due to the separation of the two sheets.

In one non-limiting aspect of the invention, the width of the releasablerelease liner is generally the same or slightly greater than the widthof the adhesive strip. Generally, the width of the adhesive strip andreleasable release liner are constant along the longitudinal length ofthe surface protector; however, this is not required. The thickness ofthe releasable release liner is generally greater than the thickness ofthe adhesive strip; however, this is not required. The material of thereleasable release liner is generally different from the composition ofthe adhesive used to form the adhesive strip. The top surface of thereleasable release liner is generally a non-stick surface; however, thisis not required. The thickness of the adhesive is generally less thanthe thickness of the sheet of the surface protector; however, this isnot required. The thickness of the releasable release liner is alsogenerally less than the thickness of the sheet of the surface protector;however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, thethickness of the adhesive strip is no more than 0.25 inches; howeverthis is not required. In one specific configuration, the thickness ofthe adhesive strip is no more than about 0.05 inches. In anothernon-limiting arrangement, the thickness of the releasable release lineris no more than 0.2 inches; however this is not required. In onespecific configuration, the thickness of the adhesive strip is no morethan about 0.1 inches.

In another non-limiting aspect of the invention, one or more adhesivestrips are positioned on or adjacent to one or both side edges of thesheet of the surface protector; however, this is not required. In onenon-limiting embodiment, the sheet of the surface protector onlyincludes a single adhesive strip positioned along one side edge of thesheet. The adhesive strip can be positioned on the side edge or spacedat some distance (e.g., 0.01-5 inches, etc.) from the side edge of thesheet of the surface protector. Generally, the adhesive strip ispositioned parallel to the side edge; however, this is not required. Inan additional or alternative non-limiting embodiment, the sheet of thesurface protector includes two or more adhesive strips positioned alongone side edge of the sheet. One of the adhesive strips can be positionedon the side edge or spaced at some distance (e.g., 0.01-5 inches, etc.)from the side edge of the sheet of the surface protector. The one ormore other adhesive strips can be positioned next to one another or bespaced from one another (e.g., 0.01-4 inches, etc.). Generally, theadhesive strips are positioned parallel to one another; however, this isnot required. Generally, the adhesive strips are positioned parallel tothe side edge of the sheet of the surface protector; however, this isnot required. In an additional or alternative non-limiting embodiment,the sheet of the surface protector includes one or more adhesive stripspositioned along each of the two side edges of the sheet. One of theadhesive strips can be positioned on the first side edge or spaced atsome distance (e.g., 0.01-5 inches, etc.) from the first side edge.Another of the adhesive strips can be positioned on the second side edgeor spaced at some distance (e.g., 0.01-5 inches, etc.) from the secondside edge. If the sheet of the surface protector includes two or moreadhesive strips at or near the first and/or second side edges of thesheet, the one or more other adhesive strips can be positioned next toone another or be spaced from one another (e.g., 0.01-4 inches, etc.).Generally, the adhesive strips are positioned parallel to one another;however, this is not required. Generally, the adhesive strips arepositioned parallel to the first and/or second side edges of the sheetof the surface protector; however, this is not required. In anadditional or alternative non-limiting embodiment, the sheet of thesurface protector includes one or more adhesive strips positioned on atop surface of the sheet and along one or both side edges of the sheetand one or more adhesive strips positioned on a bottom surface of thesheet and along one or both side edges of the sheet. In such anarrangement, the top or bottom surface of the sheet can face a floorsurface and the side opposite the floor surface would have one or moreadhesive strips that could be used to connect to another sheet. As canalso be appreciated, one or more adhesive strips could be used tofacilitate in securing one surface of the sheet of the surface protectorto a floor surface and the one or more adhesive strips on the oppositeside of the sheet could then be used to connect to another sheet. Thepositioning of the one or more adhesive strips on the top and bottomsurfaces of the sheet of the surface protector can be spaced the same ordifferent distances from the first or second side edges of the sheet.The orientation of the one or more adhesive strips on the top and bottomsurface of the sheet can be the same or different from the adhesivestrip configuration discussed above. In an additional or alternativenon-limiting embodiment, the sheet of the surface protector includes oneor more adhesive strips positioned along the front edge and/or end edgethe sheet. Generally, the sheet has a first and second side edge thatruns along the longitudinal length of the sheet. Generally, the firstand second side edges are parallel to one another; however, this is notrequired. The front edge and end edges run between the first and secondedges of the sheet and are generally normal (e.g. 80°-110°) to the twoside edges. Generally, the front and end edges are parallel to oneanother; however, this is not required. In one non-limitingconfiguration, one of the adhesive strips can be positioned on the frontedge or spaced at some distance (e.g., 0.01-5 inches, etc.) from thefront edge. Likewise, one of the adhesive strips can also oralternatively be positioned on the end edge or spaced at some distance(e.g., 0.01-5 inches, etc.) from the end edge. One or more otheradhesive strips can be optionally positioned next to one another or bespaced from one another (e.g., 0.01-4 inches, etc.). Generally, theadhesive strips are positioned parallel to one another; however, this isnot required. Generally, the adhesive strips are positioned parallel tothe front edge and/or end edge of the sheet; however, this is notrequired. The one or more adhesive strips that are positioned at or nearthe front edge and/or end edge can be positioned on the top and/orbottom side of the sheet of the surface protector. In one non-limitingconfiguration, one or more adhesive strips are positioned on the topside of the sheet at or near the front edge and/or end edge. In anothernon-limiting configuration, one or more adhesive strips are positionedon the bottom side of the sheet at or near the front edge and/or endedge. In another non-limiting configuration, one or more adhesive stripsare positioned on the top and bottom sides of the sheet of the surfaceprotector at or near the front edge and/or end edge. In anothernon-limiting configuration, one or more adhesive strips are positionedon the bottom side of the sheet of the surface protector at or near thefront edge and one or more adhesive strips that are positioned on thetop side of the sheet at or near the end edge. In another or alternativenon-limiting configuration, one or more of the adhesive strips that runsbetween the side edges of the sheet of the surface protector ispositioned between one of the adhesive strips positioned on or closelyto the front edge and to one of the adhesive strips positioned on orclosely to the end edge. Generally, the one or more adhesive stripspositioned between the adhesive strips located at or near the front andend edges of the sheet are positioned generally parallel to the frontand/or end edges and/or generally parallel to the adhesive stripslocated at or near the front and end edges of the sheet; however, thisis not required. Generally, the one or more adhesive strips positionedbetween the adhesive strips located at or near the front and end edgesof the sheet are spaced from one another (e.g., 0.5-50 ft. and allvalues and ranges therebetween); however, this is not required.

In another non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the width ofthe adhesive strip is generally about 0.25-8 inches (and all values andranges therebetween); however, larger widths can be used. Generally, thewidth of each of the adhesive strips is about 0.5-10% the width of thesheet of the surface protector (and all values and ranges therebetween),and more typically about 2-8% the width of sheet of the surfaceprotector. The width of the releasable release liner is generally thesame or slightly greater than the width of the adhesive strip.Generally, the width of the adhesive strip and releasable release linerare constant along the longitudinal length of the surface protector andgenerally run parallel to an edge of the sheet of the surface protector;however, this is not required.

In another non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the sheet canoptionally include one or more embedded creases, wherein each of thecreases can be folded in order to position a portion of the sheethorizontally and another portion of the sheet vertically. The term“crease” used herein includes scoring or perforating the surface of thesheet of the surface protector. The one or more creases can provide aquick and easy folding of the sheet of the surface protector, along oneor more crease lines, to allow for simultaneous horizontal and verticalprotection within a single product. The one or more creases in the sheetof the surface protector can eliminate the need for two or more separateproducts and extra steps in the protection process. The surfaceprotector can create a seamless barrier between a horizontal and avertical junction of orthogonally adjacent surfaces such as, forexample, a floor and a wall extending upwardly therefrom. The one ormore creases (when used) can be located only on the top surface of thesheet of the surface protector, only on the bottom surface of the sheetof the surface protector, or on both the top and bottom surface of thesheet of the surface protector. The one or more creases formed in thesheet of the surface protector are designed to enable the sheet to befolded along the crease without causing the sheet to tear or separatealong the crease. A very durable, bendable and flexible material for thesheet can be used. In the past, the folding of paperboard or fiberboardused for surface protection of floor surfaces commonly resulted in thebreakage or improper bending of the paperboard or fiberboard, thusmaking it undesirable for a floor protection system. Cardboard has beenused in the past since it can be easily folded; however, cardboard isnot as dense and durable as fiberboard of the similar thicknesses andsubsequently does not provide for the desired floor protection in manyapplications. The number of creases on the top and/or bottom of thesheet of the surface protector is non-limiting (e.g., 1-20 creases, 2-10creases, 2-5 creases, 3 creases, etc.). The number of creases may varydue to the custom needs of users. Generally, one or more creases runalong the longitudinal length of the sheet of the surface protector;however, this is not required. In one non-limiting configuration, thesheet of the surface protector includes two generally parallel sidesthat run along the longitudinal length of the sheet and one or morecreases run generally parallel to the sides. When two or more creasesare used on the sheet and run along the longitudinal length of thesheet, the two or more crease are generally parallel to one another;however, this is not required. The one or more creases (when used) areoffset a distance inward from the outer perimeter or edge of the sheetof the surface protector. Generally, each of the creases are spaced agreater distance from an edge of the surface protector than the adhesivestrip; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting configuration,one side of the surface protector includes one or more creases. Inanother non-limiting configuration, two opposing sides of the surfaceprotector each include one or more creases. The surface protector, whenincluding one or more creases, is designed to be folded along the one ormore creases, thereby creating a first portion and a second portion. Thefirst portion of the surface protector protects a first surface and thesecond portion of the surface protector protects a second surface. Thefirst surface is generally orthogonal to the second surface; however,this is not required (e.g., 5-150° and all values and rangestherebetween). When two or more creases are included on the sheet, eachcrease includes a respective offset from a side of the sheet that isdifferent from another crease; however, this is not required. In onenon-limiting arrangement, at least two of the creases are proximal toone side of the perimeter of the sheet and offset at different positionsrelative to one side. One or more of the creases (when used) can beperforated and/or water resistant; however, this is not required. In onenon-limiting configuration, the one or more creases on the sheet of thesurface protector are water resistant prior to and after the sheet isfolded along the crease; however, this is not required. A creasing wheelcan optionally be used to form the one or more creases in the sheet. Theone or more creases in the sheet can have a depth from about 5% to about40% of a depth of the sheet (and all values and ranges therebetween),and typically about 10-20% of a depth of the sheet. In one non-limitingarrangement, the one or more creases in the sheet of the surfaceprotector includes a depth from about 12-16% of a depth of the sheet.Generally, the depth of the crease is constant along the length of thecrease; however, this is not required. The width of the one or morecreases is generally about 0.05-0.5 inches (and all values and rangestherebetween). The one or more creases (when used) are generallypositioned about 1-18 inches (and all values and ranges therebetween)from the perimeter of the paperboard or fiberboard; however otherdistances can be used. The one or more creases can be colored tofacilitate in the visual location of the crease; however, this is notrequired.

In another non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the surfaceprotector can be a non-reusable (i.e., one-time use) surface protector;however, this is not required. The surface protector includes a sheet offoldable or bendable material (e.g., paperboard or fiberboard material,etc.) having a perimeter, a top surface and a bottom surface, and atleast one adhesive strip. Generally, the sheet includes a front edge, arear edge, a first side edge, a second side edge, a top surface and abottom surface; however, this is not required. Also, the sheet generallyhas a square or rectangular shape when viewing the top surface of thesheet; however, this is not required. The surface protector can be inthe form of a roll of surface protector or be formed in individualsheets. When the surface protector is in a roll, the roll is generally10-200 ft. in length (and all values and ranges therebetween); however,longer lengths can be used. When the surface protector is in a roll, thematerial and thickness of the surface protector is selected so that thesurface protector can be rolled into a roll and unrolled from the rollwithout damage or creasing the surface protector. Generally, thethickness of the sheet of the surface protector when in roll form isless than 0.5 inches and typically no more than 0.2 inches; however thisis not required. When the sheet is formed of paperboard or fiberboard,the sheet generally has a thickness of at least about 0.05 inches andtypically no more than about 0.2 inches; however, this is not required.Such a thickness provides for the desired surface protection and waterresistance generally desired for floor protection. When the surfaceprotector is in the form of individual sheets, the surface protector isgenerally about 2-20 ft. in length (and all values and rangestherebetween); however, longer lengths can be used. The width of thesurface protector when in a roll form or in individual sheet form isgenerally about 1-10 ft. (and all values and ranges therebetween);however, greater widths can be used. The surface protector is generallyformed of a material that is water resistant or water impermeable. Inone non-limiting configuration, the surface protector is formed of amaterial that prevents full penetration of water through the thicknessof the surface protector for at least about 5 minutes, typically atleast about 10 minutes, more typically at least about 30 minutes, evenmore typically at least about one hour, and still even more typically atleast about 12 hours.

The invention is also directed to a method of forming the surfaceprotector. The method can include the steps of a) providing a sheet(e.g., paperboard or fiberboard sheet) having a perimeter, and b)applying an adhesive strip at or near at least one edge of the sheet.The method can also include the steps of a) providing a sheet (e.g.,paperboard or fiberboard sheet) having a perimeter, b) applying anadhesive strip at or near at least one edge of the sheet, c) optionallyscoring or pressing the sheet to include one or more creases alignedgenerally parallel to at least one side of the sheet, and d) positioningthe crease to be offset from the perimeter of the sheet.

In one non-limiting object of the present invention, there is provided asurface protector that provides protection to floor and/or wallsurfaces.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the presentinvention, there is provided a surface protector that includes one ormore adhesive strips on the top and/or bottom side of the surfaceprotector used to connect together an adjacently positioned surfaceprotector.

In still another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the presentinvention, there is provided a surface protector that includes one ormore adhesive strips on the top and/or bottom side of the surfaceprotector that include a releasable release liner.

In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the presentinvention, there is provided a surface protector that includes one ormore adhesive strips on the top and/or bottom side of the surfaceprotector used to connect together an adjacently positioned surfaceprotector to form a dust-proof or dust-resistant seal between the twoadhesively connected surface protectors and, optionally, a liquid-proofor liquid-resistant barrier between the two adhesively connected surfaceprotectors.

In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of thepresent invention, there is provided a surface protector that includesone or more adhesive strips on the top and/or bottom side of the surfaceprotector that are preapplied adhesive strips.

In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the presentinvention, there is provided a surface protector that includes one ormore creases on the top and/or bottom side of the surface protector.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the presentinvention, there is provided a method for forming a surface protectorthat includes one or more preapplied adhesive strips on the top and/orbottom side of the surface protector.

In still another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the presentinvention, there is provided a surface protector that includes one ormore creases on the top and/or bottom side of the surface protector thatresist tearing or breaking along the crease when folded along thecrease.

In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of thepresent invention, there is provided a method for forming a creasedsurface protector that provides protection to floor and/or wall surfacesand which includes one or more adhesive strips.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the presentinvention, there is provided a surface protector that includes one ormore preapplied adhesive strips that can be easily connected to anothersurface protector so as to form a dust-proof or dust-resistant sealbetween the two adhesively connected surface protectors and, optionally,a liquid-proof or liquid-resistant barrier between the two adhesivelyconnected surface protectors.

In still another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the presentinvention, there is provided a surface protector that includes one ormore preapplied adhesive strips and one or more creases on the topand/or bottom side of the surface protector, and which said surfaceprotector can be easily connected to another surface protector so as toform a dust-proof or dust-resistant seal between the two adhesivelyconnected surface protectors, and optionally a liquid-proof orliquid-resistant barrier between the two adhesively connected surfaceprotectors, and which surface protector can be bent along the one ormore creases while not damaging the crease to provide protection tofloor and/or wall surfaces.

These and other objects and advantages will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art upon reading and following the description takentogether with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference may now be made to the drawings which illustrate variousnon-limiting embodiments that the invention may take in physical formand in certain parts and arrangement of parts wherein:

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith one non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along 2-2 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the surface protector of FIG. 1showing the removal of a removable top protective release liner;

FIG. 3A is a top perspective view of a surface protector similar to FIG.3 showing a surface protector with two creases;

FIG. 3B is a top perspective view of a surface protector similar to FIG.3 showing a surface protector with three creases;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a plurality of surface protectors in theuse position;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a plurality of surface protectors inthe use position similar to FIG. 4 wherein the one or both surfaceprotectors are laid from a roll of surface protector;

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a cross section view along line 7-7 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a cross section view along line 9-9 of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a cross section view along line 11-11 of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of double-sided tape with releaselayers on both sides of the tape that can be used with the surfaceprotector in accordance with another non-limiting aspect of the presentinvention; and,

FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of a surface protector in accordancewith another non-limiting aspect of the present invention

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for the purposeof illustrating various non-limiting embodiments of the invention onlyand not for the purpose of limiting the same, the present disclosureprovides a system and method for surface protection comprising a surfaceprotector having one or more adhesive strips on the top and/or bottomsurface of the surface protector which allow for a plurality of surfaceprotectors and/or floor coverings to be connected together. This systemthus eliminates the need for additional materials (e.g., tape, glue,etc.) at the jobsite to complete the installation of the surfaceprotector. The surface protector can also optionally include one or morecreases on the top and/or bottom surface of the surface protector.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-23, there is illustrated a surface protector 10configured to protect selected portions of surfaces such as, forexample, a floor F and/or a wall W. Generally, the surface protector 10includes a sheet 11 of bendable material such as, for example, apaperboard material or a fiberboard material having a perimetercomprising edges 12, 14, 16, 18, a top surface 24 and a bottom surface26. Additionally, the surface protector 10 includes one or more adhesivestrips 20 on the top and/or bottom surface of the sheet. The adhesivestrip 20 is illustrated as being positioned adjacent to one or moreedges of sheet 11. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-4A, the surface protectorincludes a single adhesive strip positioned on the top surface 24 ofsheet 11 and adjacent to and generally parallel to edge 16. As can beappreciated, the top surface and/or the bottom surface of sheet 11 caninclude one or more adhesive strips. As also can be appreciated, theadhesive strip can be located on edge 16 instead of being spaced fromedge 16 as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4A. As can also be appreciated, one ormore adhesive strips can be positioned on or adjacent to edge 12 ofsheet 11.

As discussed above, the preapplied adhesive strip is illustrated asbeing spaced from edge 16; however, it can be appreciated that theadhesive strip can be positioned such that one side of the adhesivestrip extends to edge 16. Generally, the adhesive strip 20 is apreapplied adhesive strip having a top adhesive surface 32.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 2-3, the adhesive strip 20 includes aremovable top protective release liner 30 that fully covers the topsurface of the adhesive strip. When the top protective release liner isremoved from the top surface of the adhesive strip, as indicated byarrow A, the top adhesive surface 32 of the adhesive strip 20 is exposedand the adhesive strip is not damaged. The composition of the topadhesive surface 32 is non-limiting; however, it is typically selectedto form a permanent connection or bond with another surface protectorand/or floor covering. The thickness of the adhesive strip isnon-limiting. Generally, the thickness is about 1 mill to 0.1 inch (andall values and ranges therebetween). The adhesive is generally formed ofa flexible material such that when the surface protector is rolled intoa roll and subsequently unrolled, the adhesive strip is not damaged. Thetop protective release liner generally has a thickness of about 5 millsto 0.1 inch (and all values and ranges therebetween). Generally, thethickness of the top protective release liner is greater than thethickness of the adhesive strip; however, this is not required. The topprotective release liner is also generally formed of a flexible materialsuch that when the surface protector is rolled into a roll andsubsequently unrolled, the top protective release liner is not damagedand does not prematurely release from the top surface of the adhesivestrip. Generally, the adhesive strip has a constant thickness and widthalong the length of the surface protector. The width of the adhesivestrip is generally about 0.25-8 inches and typically about 0.5-3 inches;however other widths can be used. These features of the adhesive stripsare also applicable to the adhesive strips illustrated in FIGS. 4-23.

It is to be appreciated that a section of a floor can become exposedbetween separated sheets of traditional floor coverings at job sites,thereby allowing dirt, debris, etc. to fall onto the floor and worktheir way underneath the floor coverings. The adhesive strip 20 appliedto the surface protector 10 of the present invention is designed toprevent this separation of overlapped surface protectors, therebypreventing any relative movement between said surface protectors andinhibiting or preventing dirt, debris, etc. from falling thereunder. Theadhesive strip can also be designed to optionally form aliquid-resistant or waterproof seal between the two connected surfaceprotectors.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 4A, the top adhesive surface 32 ofthe adhesive strip 20 is capable of forming an adhesive bond with aportion of a second surface protector 70 positioned on or over theexposed top adhesive surface 32 of the adhesive strip 20. FIG. 4illustrates two sheets 10, 70 of surface protector being connectedtogether. FIG. 4A illustrates a roll R of surface protector 70 beingunrolled and connected to a previously unrolled or previously placedsheet 10 of surface protector 70. The bond formed between the surfaceprotector 10 and the surface protector 70 can be a dust-proof bond.Furthermore, the bond formed between the surface protector 10 and thesurface protector 70 can optionally be a liquid-proof bond. Incombination with the water-resistant nature of sheet 11 of the surfaceprotector 10, there is provided a substantially dust-proof and optionalliquid-proof surface protection system as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4A

Generally, the adhesive bond formed between two surface protectors isdesigned to be a permanent bond. As such, breaking of the adhesive bond(i.e., separating the two connected surface protectors) will lead todamage to one or both of the surface protectors connected by theadhesive bond and/or damage to the adhesive strip. For example, when thetwo surface protectors are separated from on another after beingpreviously connected together by the adhesive strip and the sheets areformed of a paperboard or fiberboard material, a layer of fiberboardmaterial or paperboard material is generally left behind on the topadhesive surface of the adhesive strip; however, this is not required.Additionally, breaking of the adhesive bond can compromise thedust-proof seal and/or optional liquid-proof seal created by theadhesive bond.

In current floor protection systems, a user must get on his/her kneesand cut and paste adhesive tape over the seams between adjacent floorcoverings. Such a process is time consuming, can be difficult andpainful for individuals that have arthritis or bad knees and joints, anda proper connection or seal may not be formed between the adjacent floorcoverings. The present invention provides a surface protector floorcovering that is easy to use, capable of protecting a surface (e.g.,floor F) against sharp and forceful impact, and can be easily connectedtogether.

Any number of adhesive strips 20 can be positioned on the top and/orbottom surface of sheet 11 of surface protector 10. When one or more ofthe adhesive strips run along the longitudinal length of the sheet, theone or more adhesive strips are generally aligned with and run generallyparallel to sides 12, 16, of the sheet of the surface protector. One ormore adhesive strips can be positioned on side 12 and/or one side 16.One or more of the adhesive strips can be positioned on or spaced fromside 12 and/or one side 16. If two of more adhesive strips arepositioned on one or both sides of the sheet, the adjacently positionedadhesive strips can optionally be positioned next to and touch oneanother or be spaced some distance from one another. The adhesive stripscan be positioned on only the top surface of the sheet, only the bottomsurface of the sheet, or on both the top and bottom surface of thesheet. If one or more adhesive strips are located on the top and bottomsurface of the sheet of the surface protector, one or more of theadhesive strips can be used to connect to another surface protector,connect to a floor surface, connect to nothing, etc. For example, theone or more adhesive strips can be used to connect one floor protectorto the front and/or back ends of the sheet, and/or to one or both sidesof the sheet. In another example, the one or more adhesive strips can beused to connect the floor protector to a floor surface and/or a wallsurface. In another example, the one or more adhesive strips can be usedto connect the floor protector to a floor surface and/or a wall surface,and one or more adhesive strips can be used to connect one floorprotector to the front and/or back ends of the sheet, and/or to one orboth sides of the sheet.

As discussed above, FIGS. 1-4A illustrate a single adhesive strip 20positioned on top surface 24 and adjacent to side 16 along and generallyparallel to side 16 of sheet 11. As can be appreciated, the surfaceprotector can be modified to include any of the features of the surfaceprotectors described below and illustrated in FIGS. 6-23.

As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, surface protector 10 is formed of sheet11 that includes two adhesive strips 20, 80 that are positioned on topsurface 24 and located on or near edge 16 of sheet. Adhesive strips 20,80 are located closer to edge 16 than to edge 18. Adhesive strip 20 ispositioned on edge 16 and adhesive strip 80 is positioned adjacent andspaced from adhesive strip 20. As can be appreciated, adhesive strip 20can be spaced from edge 16. As can also be appreciated, adhesive strip80 can optionally be located next to and in contact with an edge ofadhesive strip 20. Adhesive strips 20 and 80 are illustrated as havinggenerally the same width; however, this is not required. Adhesive strips20 and 80 are illustrated as running generally parallel to one anotheralong the longitudinal length of sheet 11; however, this is notrequired. The composition and thickness of the adhesive of the twoadhesive strips are generally the same; however, this is not required.Likewise, the composition and thickness of the removable top protectiverelease liner 30, 84 are generally the same; however, this is notrequired.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, surface protector 10 is formed of sheet11 that includes two adhesive strips 20, 90 positioned on top surface 24and wherein adhesive strip 20 is located on edge 16 of the sheet andadhesive strip 90 is located on edge 12. As can be appreciated, adhesivestrip 20 can optionally be spaced from edge 16 and the adhesive stripcan be located on edge 12. As can also be appreciated, adhesive strip 20can optionally be on edge 16 and the adhesive strip can be spaced fromedge 12. As can also be appreciated, adhesive strip 20 can be spacedfrom edge 16 and the adhesive strip can be spaced from edge 12. Adhesivestrips 20 and 90 are illustrated as having generally the same width;however, this is not required. Adhesive strips 20 and 90 are illustratedas running generally parallel to one another along the longitudinallength of sheet 11; however, this is not required. The composition andthickness of the adhesive of the two adhesive strips are generally thesame; however, this is not required. Likewise, the composition andthickness of the removable top protective release liner 30, 94 aregenerally the same; however, this is not required.

As illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, surface protector 10 is formed ofsheet 11 that includes adhesive strips 20, 100 positioned whereinadhesive strip 20 is located on the top surface 24 of sheet 11 and onedge 16 of the sheet and adhesive strip 100 is located on the bottomsurface 26 of sheet 11 and on edge 16. Adhesive strips 20, 100 areillustrated as being located on the direct opposite sides of sheet 11;however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, adhesive strip 20can optionally be spaced from edge 16 and the adhesive strip can belocated on edge 16 or vice versa. Adhesive strips 20 and 100 areillustrated as having generally the same width; however, this is notrequired. Adhesive strips 20 and 100 are illustrated as runninggenerally parallel to one another along the longitudinal length of sheet11; however, this is not required. The composition and thickness of theadhesive of the two adhesive strips are generally the same; however,this is not required. Likewise, the composition and thickness of theremovable top protective release liner 30, 104 are generally the same;however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, one or moreadhesive strips can optionally also or alternatively be positioned on oradjacent to edge 12 on the top and/or bottom surface of sheet 11.

In addition to the adhesive strips running along the longitudinal lengthof sheet 11, the top surface 24 of sheet 11 includes one or moreadhesive strips 110 that run between side edges 12, 16. Adhesive strip110 is illustrated as having one end in contact with adhesive strip 20and the other edge being spaced from edge 12. As can be appreciated, theend of the adhesive strip nearest adhesive strip 20 can optionally bespaced from adhesive strip 20 or extend partially or fully over or underadhesive strip 20 to be close to or extend to edge 16. As can also beappreciated, the end of adhesive strip 110 that is closest to edge 12can optionally extend to edge 12. Also, it can be appreciated thatadhesive strip 110 can optionally also or alternatively be positioned onthe bottom side 26 of sheet 11. When the sheet of the surface protectorincludes a plurality of adhesive strips 110, the adhesive strips 110 aregenerally spaced about 0.5-20 ft. (and all values and rangestherebetween) from one another along the longitudinal axis of the sheet.When a plurality of adhesive strips 110 are positioned on sheet 11, theadhesive strips run generally parallel to one another; however, this isnot required. Also, when a plurality of adhesive strips 110 arepositioned on sheet 11, the adhesive strips have generally the sameshape length, width, and thickness, and the composition of the adhesiveis generally the same; however, this is not required. Likewise, thecomposition and thickness of the removable top protective release liners30, 104, 114 are generally the same; however, this is not required. Thecomposition, width and thickness of the adhesive of the one or moreadhesive strips 110 are generally the same as the composition, width andthickness of the adhesive of adhesive strips 20, 100; however, this isnot required. Likewise, the composition and thickness of the removabletop protective release liner 104 are generally the same as thecomposition and thickness of the removable top protective release liner30; however, this is not required.

With reference now to FIG. 5, there is provided a perspectiveillustration of a surface protector 10 comprising a sheet 11 whereinadhesive strip 20 is located adjacent to edge 16 and adhesive strip 50is located adjacent to edge 14. Both adhesive strips are located on thetop surface of sheet 11. Adhesive strip 50 is illustrated as runningfully from edge 12 to edge 16; however, this is not required. As can beappreciated, adhesive strip 20 can optionally be positioned on thebottom side of sheet 11. As can also be appreciated, sheet 11 canoptionally include both adhesive strip 50 on the top surface and anotheradhesive strip on the bottom surface that is also located on or adjacentto edge 14 and runs generally parallel to adhesives strip 50; however,this is not required. As also be appreciated, a plurality of adhesivestrips can be optionally positioned on the top and/or bottom surface ofsheet 11 that run partially or fully between edges 12 and 14 and whichrun generally parallel to one another and which are located at or nearedge 14. Although no shown, it can be appreciated that one or moreadhesive strips can optionally be positioned on the top and/or bottomsurface of sheet 11 that run partially or fully between edges 12 and 14and which run generally parallel to one another and which are located ator near edge 18. Adhesive strip 50 is illustrated as running generallynormal or perpendicular to adhesive strip 20; however, this is notrequired. Adhesive strips 20, 50 are generally the same shape length,width, and thickness, and the composition of the adhesive is generallythe same; however, this is not required. Likewise, the composition andthickness of the removable top protective release liner 30, 56 aregenerally the same; however, this is not required. The composition,width and thickness of the adhesive of the one or more adhesive stripsare generally the same; however, this is not required. Likewise, thecomposition and thickness of the removable top protective release linersare generally the same; however, this is not required. When theremovable protective release liner 30 is removed from the adhesive strip20 (as indicated by arrow B), the top adhesive surface 32 of adhesivestrip 50 is exposed. Similarly, when the removable protective releaseliner 56 is removed from the adhesive strip 50 (as indicated by thearrow C), the top adhesive surface 52 of adhesive strip 50 is exposed.In practice, adhesive strip 50 that is positioned at edge 14 and/or edge18 can be used to connect together the front and/or back ends of twosheets so that surfaces that are longer than the length of a singlesheet 11 can be protected by multiply connected sheets of surfaceprotector.

Referring now to FIG. 12, there is illustrated a surface protector 10that includes a sheet wherein the top surface includes a plurality ofadhesive strips 120, 130, 140 that run between edges 12 and 16 of sheet11. Adjacently positioned adhesive strips are generally spaced equaldistances from one another; however, this is not required. Thecomposition, width and thickness of the adhesive of the one or moreadhesive strips are generally the same; however, this is not required.Likewise, the composition and thickness of the removable top protectiverelease liners 124, 134, 144 are generally the same; however, this isnot required. Although not shown, it can be appreciated that the bottomsurface or the top and bottom surface of sheet 11 can optionally includea plurality of adhesive strips that run between edges 12 and 16 of sheet11. As can also be appreciated, the top and/or bottom surface of thesheet can optionally include one or more adhesive strips that arepositioned on or adjacent to edge 12 and/or edge 16 and run generallyparallel to edge 12 and/or edge 16.

The different spacing and positioning arrangements of the one or moreadhesive strips relative to one or both sides of the sheet of thesurface protector and the top and/or bottom surface of the sheet of thesurface protector allows for custom connecting to ensure adequateprotection for a selected portion of a surface to be protected by thesurface protector. It can be appreciated that any number of surfaceprotectors can be utilized in conjunction with one another whereinadjacent surface protectors are overlapped, and an adhesive bond isformed between top and bottom surfaces of said adjacent surfaceprotectors. The surface protectors can optionally be used to completelycover a floor surface. As such, during job site operations, relativemovement between adjacent surface protectors is minimized or eliminatedby the adhesive bond formed between said adjacent surface protectors. Ascan be appreciated, the arrangement, number and positioning of theadhesive strips on sheet 11 as illustrated in FIGS. 1-23 arenon-limiting, and the present invention contemplates the number,configuration and arrangement of adhesive strips on the top and/orbottom surface of sheet 11. As can be appreciated, any of thearrangements of the adhesive strips described and illustrated in any oneof FIGS. 1-23 can optionally be used in any of the other arrangementsillustrated in FIGS. 1-23.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-4A and 6-23, the surface protector 10 canoptionally include one or more creases that are offset a distance inwardfrom an edge of sheet 11 of the surface protector 10. FIGS. 1-3illustrate a single crease 22 on the top surface 24 of sheet 11 that islocated closer to edge 12 than to edge 16. Crease 22 is illustrated asrunning along the longitudinal length of sheet 11. Crease 22 isgenerally positioned parallel to edge 12; however, this is not required.

FIG. 3A illustrates a surface protector that optionally includes twocreases 22, 23. Creases 22, 23 are located on the top surface 24 ofsheet 11 and are both located closer to edge 12 than to edge 16. Thespacing between crease 23 and edge 12 is illustrated as being greaterthan the spacing between creases 22, 23; however, this is not required.Creases 22, 23 are illustrated as running along the longitudinal lengthof sheet 11. Creases 22, 23 are generally positioned parallel to edge12; however, this is not required. The size, shape, width and depth ofthe creases is generally the same; however, this is not required. Thespacing between crease 22 and adhesive strip 20 is illustrated as beinggreater than the distance between adhesive strip 20 and edge 16.

FIG. 3B illustrates a surface protector that optionally includes threecreases 22, 23, 25. Creases 22, 23, 25 are located on the top surface 24of sheet 11. Both creases 22, 23 are located closer to edge 12 than toedge 16. Crease 25 is located closer to edge 16 than to edge 12. Thespacing between crease 23 and edge 12 is illustrated as being less thanthe spacing between creases 22, 23; however, this is not required. Thespacing between crease 25 and edge 16 is illustrated as being less thanthe spacing between crease 22 and edge 12 and greater than the distancebetween cease 23 and edge 12; however, this is not required. Creases 22,23, 25 are illustrated as running along the longitudinal length of sheet11. Creases 22, 23 are generally positioned parallel to edge 12 andcrease 25 is generally positioned parallel to edge 16 and all threecreases are generally positioned parallel to one another; however, thisis not required. Crease 25 is also illustrated as being spaced a greaterdistance from edge 16 as compared to adhesive strip 20; however, this isnot required. Crease 25 is also illustrated as being spaced fromadhesive strip 20; however, this is not required. The size, shape, widthand depth of the crease is generally the same; however, this is notrequired.

Referring now FIGS. 6 and 7, the surface protector includes a sheet 11having two creases 150, 152. Creases 150, 152 are located on the bottomsurface 26 of sheet 11. Both creases 150, 152 are located closer to edge12 than to edge 16. The spacing between crease 150 and edge 12 isillustrated as being about the same as the spacing between creases 150,152; however, this is not required. Creases 150, 152 are illustrated asrunning along the longitudinal length of sheet 11. Creases 150, 152 aregenerally positioned parallel to edge 12; however, this is not required.The size, shape, width and depth of the creases are generally the same;however, this is not required. Crease 150, 152 are illustrated as beingpositioned on the opposite side of sheet 11 than the adhesive strips 20,80. The spacing between the two adhesive strips 20, 80 is illustrated asbeing less than the spacing between creases 150, 152; however, this isnot required.

Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, the surface protector includes a sheet11 having four creases 160, 162, 164, 166. Creases 160, 164 are locatedon the bottom surface 26 of sheet 11 and creases 162, 166 are located onthe top surface 24 of sheet 11. Both creases 160, 162 are located closerto edge 12 than to edge 16. Both creases 164, 166 are located closer toedge 16 than to edge 12. Crease 162 is illustrated as being positioneddirectly above crease 160 and spaced the same distance from edge 12 ascrease 160; however, this is not required. Crease 166 is illustrated asbeing positioned directly above crease 164 and spaced the same distancefrom edge 16 as crease 164; however, this is not required. The spacingbetween creases 160, 162 and edge 12 is illustrated as being about thesame as the spacing between creases 164, 166 from edge 16; however, thisis not required. Creases 160, 162, 164, 166 are illustrated as runningalong the longitudinal length of sheet 11. Creases 160, 162 aregenerally positioned parallel to edge 12; however, this is not required.Creases 164, 166 are generally positioned parallel to edge 16; however,this is not required. Generally, all of the creases are positionedparallel to one another. The size, shape, width and depth of the creasesare generally the same; however, this is not required. Creases 160, 164are illustrated as being positioned on the opposite side of sheet 11that the adhesive strips 20, 90, and creases 162, 166 are illustrated asbeing positioned on the same side of sheet 11 as the adhesive strips 20,90. The spacing between adhesive strip 90 and edge 12 is illustrated asbeing less than the spacing of creases 160, 162 from edge 12; however,this is not required. The spacing between adhesive strip 20 and edge 16is illustrated as being less than the spacing of creases 164, 166 fromedge 16; however, this is not required.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, the surface protector includes a sheet11 having four creases 170, 172, 174, 176. Creases 170, 174 are locatedon the bottom surface 26 of sheet 11 and creases 172, 176 are located onthe top surface 24 of sheet 11. Both creases 170, 172 are located closerto edge 12 than to edge 16. Both creases 174, 176 are located closer toedge 16 than to edge 12. Crease 172 is illustrated as being positioned agreater distance from edge 12 than 170; however, this is not required.Crease 176 is illustrated as being positioned directly above crease 174and spaced the same distance from edge 16 as crease 174; however, thisis not required. The spacing between crease 170 and edge 12 isillustrated as being about the same as the spacing between creases 174,176 from edge 16; however, this is not required. Creases 170, 172, 174,176 are illustrated as running along the longitudinal length of sheet11. Creases 170, 172 are generally positioned parallel to edge 12;however, this is not required. Creases 174, 176 are generally positionedparallel to edge 16; however, this is not required. Generally, all ofthe creases are positioned parallel to one another. The size, shape,width and depth of the creases are generally the same; however, this isnot required. Creases 170, 174 are illustrated as being positioned onthe opposite side of sheet 11 than the adhesive strip 20, and creases172, 176 are illustrated as being positioned on the same side of sheet11 as the adhesive strip 20. Creases 170, 174 are illustrated as beingpositioned on the same side of sheet 11 as the adhesive strip 100, andcreases 172, 176 are illustrated as being positioned on the oppositeside of sheet 11 than the adhesive strip 100. The spacing betweenadhesive strips 20, 100 and edge 16 is illustrated as being less thanthe spacing of creases 174, 176 from edge 16; however, this is notrequired. One end of adhesive strip 110 is illustrated as terminatingjust prior to crease 172; however, this is not required. The oppositeend of adhesive strip 110 is illustrated as overlying crease 176 andextending to or adjacent to adhesive strip 20. As can be appreciated,adhesive strip 110 can be sized and positioned so as to not overlie anyof the creases on sheet 11; however, this is not required.

Referring now to FIG. 12, the surface protector includes a sheet 11having three creases 180, 182, 184. Creases 180, 182, 184 are located onthe bottom surface 26 of sheet 11. Both creases 180, 182 are locatedcloser to edge 12 than to edge 16. Crease 184 is located closer to edge16 than to edge 12. Crease 182 is illustrated as being positioned agreater distance from edge 12 than 180; however, this is not required.The spacing between crease 180 and edge 12 is illustrated as being aboutthe same as the spacing between crease 184 and edge 16; however, this isnot required. Creases 180, 182, 184 are illustrated as running along thelongitudinal length of sheet 11. Creases 180, 182 are generallypositioned parallel to edge 12; however, this is not required. Crease184 is generally positioned parallel to edge 16; however, this is notrequired. Generally, all of the creases are positioned parallel to oneanother. The size, shape, width and depth of the creases are generallythe same; however, this is not required. Creases 180, 182, 184 areillustrated as being positioned on the opposite side of sheet 11 thanthe adhesive strips 120, 130, 140. Creases 180, 182, 184 are illustratedas being generally normal or perpendicular to adhesive strips 120, 130,140; however, this is not required.

As can be appreciated, the number and orientation of creases, and theside of the sheet upon which the one or more creases can be located, isnon-limiting. FIGS. 1-4A and 6-23 merely provide a few examples of thenumber and orientation of creases, and the side of the sheet upon whichthe one or more creases can be located in combination with the one ormore adhesive strips that can be located on the top and/or bottomsurface of the sheet. As can be appreciated, any of the arrangements ofthe creases described and illustrated in any one of FIGS. 1-4A and 6-23can optionally be used in any of the other arrangements illustrated inFIGS. 1-23.

Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 4A, one example of the folding of the sheetalong a crease and the connection of two surface protectors by use ofthe adhesive strip is illustrated. It will be appreciated that thegeneral principles of using the surface protector as illustrated inFIGS. 4 and 4A can be used for the surface protectors illustrated inFIGS. 1-3 and 6-12. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 4A, the surfaceprotector 10 can be folded along the one or more creases. As illustratedin FIGS. 4 and 4A, when the sheet is folded along crease 22, a firstportion 36 and a second portion 38 of the sheet are formed. The firstportion 36 of the surface protector 10 is capable of protecting a firstsurface (e.g., wall W) while the second portion 38 of surface protector10 is capable of protecting a second surface (e.g., floor F) asillustrated in FIGS. 4 and 4A. Generally, the crease is designed to bewater resistant when in the bent and non-bent state.

It is to be appreciated that the lower section of wall W as illustratedin FIGS. 4 and 4A, including the baseboard (not shown), can be easilydamaged at job sites. The one or more creases of the surface protector10 are designed to enable the surface protector to protect both thefloor F and the lower section of the wall W at the same time, with asingle piece of material. More specifically, the surface protector 10 isdesigned to prevent damage at or near the junction 33 between the floorF and the wall W.

The surface protector 10 of the present invention can be manufactured asa roll of material; however, this is not required. When the surfaceprotector is in roll form, the end user can create sheets of foldablematerial of desired length to cover a selected surface by cutting thesheet to a desire length after being unrolled from the roll. Generally,during manufacturing, the adhesive strip 20 can be continuously appliedto the sheet as the sheet is moved along a manufacturing process. If thesurface protector is to be rolled into a roll, the removable topprotective release liner is applied to the top surface of the adhesiveof the adhesive strip prior to rolling the surface protector.

In use, the surface protector 10 can be unrolled as illustrated in FIG.4A and positioned on a surface (e.g., floor F, wall W) to be coveredand/or protected. The surface protector 10 can optionally be foldedalong one or more creases (e.g., crease 22) thereby forming a firstportion 36 for covering a portion of the wall W and a second portion 38for covering a portion of the floor F. When the surface protector is tobe used to protect both a wall and a floor surface, the surfaceprotector 10 is positioned such that one of the creases is positioned ator near the junction 33 between the floor F and wall W. The removabletop protective release liner can be removed from the top adhesivesurface of the adhesive strip, thereby exposing the top adhesive surfaceof the adhesive strip on the surface protector 10. A second surfaceprotector 70 (see FIGS. 4 and 4A) can then be provided, unrolled andsubsequently positioned such that the second surface protector 70 atleast partially covers the exposed top adhesive surface of the adhesivestrip of the surface protector 10. Generally, the second surfaceprotector 70 is overlapped such that the overlapping portion of thesecond surface protector 70 at least partially covers the adhesivesurface. A pressure such as, for example, the weight of a person walkingon the surface protector, moving or rolling a roller on the surfaceprotector, moving a heavy device (e.g., a device weighing 10 lbs. ormore) on the surface protector, etc., can then be applied to the topsurface of the surface protector 70 in the area of the adhesive strip onthe top surface of the surface protector 10, thereby completing theadhesive bonding between the surface protector 10 and surface protector70. This process can then be repeated to secure additional surfaceprotectors together.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, a plurality of surface protectors 10, 60, 70can be used to protect selections of surfaces (e.g., floor F and wallW). As illustrated in FIG. 4, surface protectors 10, 60 can be foldedalong one or more creases (e.g., 22, 62), respectively, and positionedsuch that the creases (e.g., 22, 62) are positioned at or near thejunction 33 between the floor F and the wall W. As such, a first portion36 of surface protector 10 can cover a portion of the wall W and asecond portion 38 of surface protector 10 can cover a portion of thefloor F. Similarly, a first portion 66 of surface protector 60 can covera portion of the wall W and a second portion 68 of surface protector 60can cover a portion of the floor F. Surface protector 10 overlapssurface protector 60. The removable protective release liners (notshown) can be removed from adhesive strips (e.g., adhesive strips 20,64), thereby exposing the top adhesive surfaces (e.g., top adhesivesurfaces 32, 65), respectively. Another surface protector 70 can then bepositioned over the exposed top adhesive surfaces of surface protectors10, 60, respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 4, if surface protector 70is the last surface protector to be added for protection of the selectedsurface, the removable protective release liner 74 is typically left inplace over adhesive strip 72, thereby preventing exposure of the coveredtop adhesive material (not shown) of adhesive strip 72. At any pointduring installation, a pressure such as, for example, the weight of aperson walking on the surface protector, can then be applied to the topsurface of the surface protectors 10, 60, 70 in the area of the adhesivestrips, thereby completing the adhesive bonding between the surfaceprotectors 10, 60, 70. This process can then be repeated to secureadditional surface protectors together.

Alternatively, the surface protector 70 can be provided, unrolled andpositioned at least partially over the surface protector 10 prior to theremoval of the removable top protective release liner (e.g., protectiverelease liner 30) from the top adhesive surface (e.g., top adhesivesurface 32) of the adhesive strip (e.g., adhesive strip 20) of thesurface protector 10. In such a method of operation, the amount of dust,debris, etc. at the job site which sticks to the top adhesive surface ofthe adhesive strip before the second surface protector is applied can beminimized and/or prevented. As can be appreciated, this method ofoperation can be particularly useful in job operations having high dust,dirt, and/or debris production.

The adhesive bond formed between the surface protector 70 and thesurface protector 10 can be a dust-proof bond. Additionally, theadhesive bond formed between the surface protector 70 and the surfaceprotector 10 can be a liquid-proof bond.

Referring now to FIGS. 13-15, there is a provided another non-limitingembodiment of the invention. Sheet 11 is illustrated as being positionedon a floor surface or other type of surface to be protected. Sheet 11can be in a roll that has been rolled out and cut to a desired length orcan be a single precut flat sheet. Sheet 70 is illustrated as being in aroll prior to be rolled out onto the surface to be protected. Asillustrated in FIG. 14, a side edge of sheet 70 overlies a top surfaceof a side edge portion of sheet 11. As can be appreciated, the sideedges of sheet 11 and sheet 70 can be positioned adjacent to one anotherin a non-overlapping arrangement as illustrated in FIG. 23. FIG. 15illustrates a strip 200 placed over the top surface of a side edgeportion of sheet 70 and also over a top portion of sheet 11. Strip 200is used to form a connection between sheets 11 and 70 and to form adust-proof and optionally liquid-proof seal. Strip 200 can be connectedto sheets 11 and 70 by an adhesive and/or a heat-created bond (e.g.,melted bond, heat-activated adhesive, etc.). As can be appreciated, anadhesive connection can also or alternatively be formed between sheets11 and 70 as described with respect to FIGS. 4-12. FIG. 23 is avariation of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15 wherein the edges ofsheets 11 and 70 are positioned adjacent to one another and do notoverlap one another. Strip 200 is used to form a connection betweensheets 11 and 70 and to form a dust-proof and optionally liquid-proofseal. Strip 200 can be connected to sheets 11 and 70 by an adhesiveand/or a heat-created bond (e.g., melted bond, heat-activated adhesive,etc.).

Referring now to FIGS. 16-22, there is a provided another non-limitingembodiment of the invention. Sheet 11 is illustrated as being positionedon a floor surface or other type of surface to be protected. Sheet 11can be in a roll that has been rolled out and cut to a desired length orcan be a single precut flat sheet.

A double sided adhesive strip 210 is illustrated in FIG. 16 as beingapplied to a top surface of a side edge portion of sheet 11. Thedouble-sided adhesive strip can be formed in a roll of adhesive strip asillustrated in FIG. 16; however, this is not required. As illustrated inFIG. 22, the adhesive strip 210 can optionally include a release layer212 on one or both sides of the adhesive strip. When adhesive strip 210includes a release layer, the release layer is at least partiallyremoved from the adhesive strip to expose an adhesive surface so thatthe adhesive surface can engage and connect to the top surface of theside edge of sheet 11. The release layer on the opposite side of theadhesive strip is at least partially removed prior to sheet 70 beingpositioned over the side edge portion of sheet 11 that includes adhesivestrip 210. FIG. 18 illustrates that sheet 70 is in a roll similar tobeing described above with respect to FIG. 13. As illustrated in FIG.19, sheet 70 is rolled out over a portion of sheet 11 so that adhesivestrip 210 connects together sheet 11 and 70. As can be appreciated, theside edges of sheet 11 and sheet 70 can be positioned adjacent to oneanother in a non-overlapping arrangement. Adhesive strip 210 optionallyforms a dust-proof and/or liquid-proof seal between sheets 11 and 70.Also, the bottom surface of the adhesive strip that is not connected tosheet 11 can optionally be used to be secured to a floor surface so asto maintain the position of sheet 11 as sheet 70 is rolled out andsecured to strip 210.

FIGS. 20-21 illustrates the optional further step of applying strip 200over the top surface of a side edge portion of sheet 70 and also over atop portion of sheet 11. Strip 200 is used to also form a connectionbetween sheets 11 and 70 and optionally also to alternatively form adust-proof and/or liquid-proof seal between sheets 11 and 70. Strip 200can be connected to sheets 11 and 70 by an adhesive and/or aheat-created bond (e.g., melted bond, heat-activated adhesive, etc.). Ascan be appreciated, an adhesive connection can also or alternatively beformed between sheets 11 and 70 as described with respect to FIGS. 4-12.

It is to be appreciated that the surface protector 10 of the presentinvention can be used in conjunction with existing types of surfaceprotectors and/or floor coverings (e.g., plastic sheets, cardboard,fiberboard, cloth, etc.) for the purpose of protecting selected portionsof surfaces.

It is also to be appreciated that a plurality of surface protectors 10can be used to completely cover the floor and at least a lower portionof one or more walls at a job site.

It will be appreciated that variants of the above-disclosed and otherfeatures and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined intomany other different systems or applications. Various presentlyunforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations orimprovements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in theart which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

What is claimed:
 1. A surface protection system for protecting selectedportions of floor surfaces, the system comprising: a first surfaceprotector, said first surface protector formed of a sheet of bendablematerial having a perimeter, a top surface and a bottom surface; and, asecond surface protector, said second surface protector formed of asheet of bendable material having a perimeter, a top surface and abottom surface; wherein a portion of said bottom surface of said secondsurface protector is positioned adjacent to said bottom surface of saidfirst surface protector or overlies a portion of said top surface ofsaid first surface protector and said first and second surfaceprotectors are connected together by an adhesive, an adhesive strip,and/or a heat-created bond so as to form a dust-proof connection betweensaid first and second surface protectors.
 2. The surface protectionsystem as defined in claim 1, said connection between said first andsecond surface protectors is formed by a) said bottom surface of saidsecond surface protector being connected by said adhesive, said adhesivestrip, and/or said heat-created bond to said top surface of said firstsurface protector, and/or b) a strip of material connecting togethersaid top surface of said first and second surface protectors.
 3. Thesurface protection system as defined in claim 1, wherein a firstadhesive strip positioned at or adjacent to said perimeter of saidsecond surface protector forms an adhesive bond with said bottom surfaceof said first surface protector.
 4. The surface protection system asdefined in claim 3, wherein said adhesive connection between said firstand second surface protectors is a liquid-proof connection.
 5. Thesurface protection system as defined in claim 3, wherein said firstadhesive strip on said first surface protector includes a removable topprotective release liner that, when removed, exposes a top and/or bottomadhesive surface of said first adhesive strip.
 6. The surface protectionsystem as defined in claim 1, wherein said sheet material of said firstand/or second surface protector is selected from the group consisting offiberboard, paperboard, composite fabric and plastic.
 7. The surfaceprotection system as defined in claim 1, wherein said first and/orsecond surface protector includes a first crease that is offset adistance inward from said perimeter of said sheet and positioned on saidtop surface or said bottom surface of said sheet, said sheet is capableof being folded along said first crease without damaging said crease orsaid sheet thereby creating a first portion and a second portion, saidfirst portion of said sheet is capable of protecting a first surface andsaid second portion of said sheet is capable of protecting a secondsurface when said sheet is folded along said first crease.
 8. Thesurface protection system as defined in claim 7, wherein said firstcrease is water-resistant both prior to and after said sheet is foldalong said first crease.
 9. The surface protection system as defined inclaim 1, wherein said first and/or second surface protector has alongitudinal length of at least 10 feet and a width of at least 2 feet,and wherein said first and/or second surface protector is in a rollprior to said first and second surface protectors being connectedtogether, said first and/or second surface protector when in said rollis absent creases running between a width of said sheet when said sheetis rolled in said roll.
 10. A method for protecting selected portions ofa floor surface, the method including: providing a first surfaceprotector, said first surface protector is formed of a sheet of bendablematerial having a perimeter, a top surface and a bottom surface;providing a second surface protector, said second surface protector isformed of a sheet of bendable material having a perimeter, a top surfaceand a bottom surface; positioning said second surface protector on saidfloor surface such that a portion of said bottom surface of said secondsurface protector is positioned adjacent to said bottom surface of saidfirst surface protector or overlies a portion of said top surface ofsaid first surface protector; and, causing said first and second surfaceprotectors to be connected together by an adhesive, an adhesive strip,and/or a heat-created bond so as to form a dust-proof connection betweensaid first and second surface protectors.
 11. The method as defined inclaim 10, said connection between said first and second surfaceprotectors is formed by a) said bottom surface of said second surfaceprotector being connected by said adhesive, said adhesive strip, and/orsaid heat-created bond to said top surface of said first surfaceprotector, and/or b) a strip of material connecting together said topsurface of said first and second surface protectors.
 12. The method asdefined in claim 10, wherein a first adhesive strip positioned at oradjacent to said perimeter of said second surface protector forms anadhesive bond with said bottom surface of said first surface protector.13. The method as defined in claim 12, wherein said adhesive connectionbetween said first and second surface protectors is a liquid-proofconnection.
 14. The method as defined in claim 12, wherein said firstadhesive strip on said first surface protector includes a removable topprotective release liner that, when removed, exposes a top and/or bottomadhesive surface of said first adhesive strip.
 15. The method as definedin claim 10, wherein said sheet material of said first and/or secondsurface protector is selected from the group consisting of fiberboard,paperboard, composite fabric and plastic.
 16. The method as defined inclaim 10, wherein said first and/or second surface protector includes afirst crease that is offset a distance inward from said perimeter ofsaid sheet and positioned on said top surface or said bottom surface ofsaid sheet, said sheet is capable of being folded along said firstcrease without damaging said crease or said sheet thereby creating afirst portion and a second portion, said first portion of said sheet iscapable of protecting a first surface and said second portion of saidsheet is capable of protecting a second surface when said sheet isfolded along said first crease.
 17. The method as defined in claim 16,wherein said first crease is water-resistant both prior to and aftersaid sheet is fold along said first crease.
 18. The method as defined inclaim 10, wherein said first and/or second surface protector has alongitudinal length of at least 10 feet and a width of at least 2 feet,and wherein said first and/or second surface protector is in a rollprior to said first and second surface protectors being connectedtogether, said first and/or second surface protector when in said rollis absent creases running between a width of said sheet when said sheetis rolled in said roll.
 19. The method as defined in claim 10, whereinsaid step of causing said first and second surface protectors to beconnected together includes applying pressure to said top surface ofsaid second surface protector, said step of applying pressure includesone or more processes selected from the group consisting of a) a personwalking on said top surface of said second surface protector, b) rollinga roller over said top surface of said second surface protector, and c)moving a heavy device over said top surface of said second surfaceprotector.
 20. The method as defined in claim 16, further including thestep of folding said first and/or second surface protector along saidfirst crease such that said first and/or second floor protector protectsboth a portion of said floor surface and a portion of a wall positionedadjacent to said floor surface.